Much like some of its contemporaries, the HTC EVO 3D features an equipped 1.2GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon MSM8660 processor with 1GB of RAM and an Adreno 220 GPU. Naturally, the higher than normal RAM amount is needed for the various 3D capabilities of the handset – thus, keeping things consistent in speed without sacrificing performance. And in all honesty, the handset executes effortlessly with little issues regarding responsiveness and speed. Even with a graphically intensive live wallpaper activated, the HTC EVO 3D is still able to casually navigate its homescreens – as nifty looking transition effects are used. Quickly running a couple of benchmark tests on the handset out of the box, it’s able to produce some admirable results – albeit, they’re not earth breaking.

In terms of platform experience, it’s identical to what we’ve seen already with the HTC Sensation 4G, which is Sense 3.0 running on top of Android 2.3.3 Gingerbread. In fact, HTC Sense 3.0 isn’t anything revolutionary, instead offering multiple improvements, not least of all in the form of an entirely redrawn UI and an intelligent lock screen.

The redrawn UI sits on top of Gingerbread and carries the premium feel from the construction across to the interface. From a design perspective, HTC Sense 3.0 is so considered, elegant and cohesive, that it’s on another level to any custom UI we’ve seen. Widgets are pin sharp and there are some really attractive new ones, such as the photo grid (gallery) widget, a huge improvement over the static photo-frame. The 7 homescreens are also now on a revolving carousel system, so the last leads straight back to the first, and all with some rather slick SPB like carousel visuals in the process. If you’d like a comprehensive look at other aspects of Sense 3.0, you can read more about it in our HTC Sensation 4G review.

The HTC EVO 3D has Sense 3.0 UI running on top of Android 2.3.3 Gingerbread

Without a doubt, HTC Sense is by far one of the best customized Android experiences out there, but we’re actually expecting something more seeing that this is the HTC EVO 3D we’re talking about. Do you read the 3D in that name? Well, it would’ve been nice if HTC concocted some sort of Sense 3D interface to show off the handset’s prominent feature, but alas, we’re simply given the usual assortment. Even if they can’t simply convert Sense into 3D, it would’ve been nice to have some sort of app that brings up a separate 3D interface of some sort.

Camera and Multimedia:

Two 5-megapixel auto-focus cameras with dual LED flash sit pretty on the rear side of the HTC EVO 3D, which of course, provides the handset the ability to capture 3D photos and videos. The interface of the camera is HTC’s standard, with a few more special effects and tweaks under the hood. When shooting 2D stills, it takes roughly 3 seconds to actually take the shot, save it, and jump back in to take another one. However, the time doubles to 6 seconds when snapping 3D photos. Although the 3D display is active when capturing 3D content, it’s rather to hard see the effect while attempting to capture the shot – but at least it’s prominent when previewing it later on.

Camera interface

Unfortunately, nothing has changed in terms of 2D image quality with the HTC EVO 3D – though, we’re given a lower 5-megapixel shooter versus the EVO 4G’s larger 8-megapixel one. Despite the drop, image quality is nonetheless the same with its average looking results. Generally producing soft toned details and cooler color production with images outdoors, things dramatically take a drop with low lighting shots since they’re grainy, filled with digital noise, and produce distorted looking colors. Luckily, it manages to do very well with macro shots. At the same time, its dual-LED flash is able to lighten up the environment, but its potency is only evident when capturing subjects that are 5 feet away at the most.

2D camera samples shot with the HTC EVO 3D

Strong

Medium

Low light

3ft

5ft

7ft

Darkness with flashIndoor samples

Conversely, we’re not all too concerned about image details with its 3D photos, but rather, we focus our attention more on how well it brings forth that perception of depth. Rightfully so, it hits the mark dead on with its results, but there are some mechanics behind it to profoundly produce its intense 3D effects. Specifically, you’ll get the most effect when taking subjects that are a few feet away, with additional subjects in the background littered around. However, you can kiss taking macro shots in 3D seeing that it ends up looking like a mirrored image.

Irritating to say the least, it’s rather bewildering to find the HTC EVO 3D failing to cough up even some minutely decent looking high-definition videos. Shooting 720p videos at the smooth rate of 29 frames per second, it’s actually one of the positive things going for, seeing that the rest is just absolutely garish. Actually, we’re presented with abysmal looking details and an abundance of artifacting when panning to make the overall result far from being regarded as high-definition.

HTC EVO 3D Sample Video:

HTC EVO 3D Sample Video in 3D:

Music playback is through HTC's music app which delivers a very standard UI, though the overall music experience is great. Much like what we saw with the Sensation 4G, audio quality with the EVO 3D’s speaker is neutral in tone – though, it doesn’t sound strained at the loudest setting. Granted that it offers SRS enhancement, it does add just a tiny bit of power to its output, but it still doesn’t come off as commanding.

Music player

Knowing that a dual-core processor is tucked inside of it, the HTC EVO 3D is more than capable of playing a test video of ours encoded in MPEG-4 1920 x 1080 resolution. Everything comes to life with its brilliant looking Super LCD display, but thanks to its screen size, it’s more than enjoyable on so many levels. However, it’s worth knowing that the handset omits a kickstand – meaning, you’ll need either to hold it or prop it on something to watch videos comfortably.

Video playback

Relying on HTC’s Watch service, The Green Hornet movie in 3D is packaged along with the device, which shows how enjoyable it is to watch 3D videos on the go. Highlighting all of the best aspects of 3D video watching, the experience is actually the same when viewing 3D videos shot with the smartphone. Even though we can’t gauge its actual level of detail, it’s pretty much overlooked in favor of the level of depth presented to us with its results.

The gallery is HTC's standard gridded system, with some cool perks such as wireless network printing as well. Interaction with images is very predictable with pinch to zoom being silky smooth and images rendering instantly while looking great on the screen. Moreover, content taken in 3D are notated with the “3D” tag within the gallery app.

The gallery of the HTC EVO 3D

Lastly, using an optional MHL adapter that’s plugged into the handset’s microUSB port, we’re able to watch 1080p videos stored on the handset directly on a high-definition television set. Not only that, but you can get a mirrored experience as well, which brings the handset’s entire platform experience onto the big screen.

Preloaded with an 8GB microSD card, it’s definitely something nice that complements the handset’s built-in 1GB of memory. Likewise, if the 8GB card isn’t sufficient enough, you can always swap it with cards up to 32GB in capacity.

2.cyborg (unregistered)

I think you mean "sub"jective. And yes, I think a mobile device should have good battery life and viewing angles. It's a great phone to get a 9/10, but I believe the full point off is warranted. The Galaxy S II lasted ~60 hours in their medium use tests, so it's not like it can't be done with today's tech.

30.megadirk (unregistered)

I just don't see how only 1 point was taken off, "less than ideal battery life" should warrant 1 point subtracted just for that. At this point battery life shouldn't be listed in the "Con" category (not to mention HD video and viewing angles) on any manufacturers flagship device. Embarrassment is all they should feel if they still can't get this right so far into the game.

I think "10hr normal use" needs to be more tightly defined. If this is listening to music, occasional email and facebook checking, texting, snapping a few photos, and playing a few games to pass the time, then my iPhone 4 has about 30hr of "normal use." It has probably 10hr of very heavy use. These are overall MOBILE devices, and should therefore allow you to be free from an electrical outlet for many hours without fear of battery death.

The 3D is a neat feature, but if it will kill my battery with 10hr of normal use, this tech is not meant for your phone, but a stand-alone device with a larger battery.

For once I think this was actually a fair review. I like that they enjoyed the 3D capabilities and appreciated that the price is a true bargain. But most of all, I love that not once was the iPhone 4 mentioned!

I can't wait to get this phone! Can someone please remind me how the Premiere special works to get one early on June 21st? Do you call Telesales or go into a store? Details would be appreciated. Thanks.

8.Megatron (unregistered)

As an iPhone 3GS user looking to switch this year, I am really looking forward to getting this phone. IMHO, 2 of the cons listed are not cons for me.

I do not like wide viewing angles on my phone, I prefer privacy, as long as i can share photos with 1 or 2 other people I'm fine. It's got HDMI functionality if I want to share with more.

I don't care that it dosn't have a 3D UI. The reason they didn't do this is because it would be too straining on the battery and the user's eyes (as mentioned at CTIA 2011) and I agree. Besides, 3D is a bonus feature, new to phones. If this were a 2D only phone, that would not be listed as a con.

I am a power user, and 7 hours talk time/10 hours normal use will be fine with me, of course battery life could always be better, but I currently charge my iPhone 3GS 2 to 3 times a work day, I can't wait to be able to use a spare battery in emergency situations.

"I prefer privacy" is kind of fooling yourself into thinking that viewing angles don't matter. True that coming from a iPhone 3GS you will probably be impressed with the viewing angle. Just don't look at an iPhone 4, Droid X2, or Super AMOLED Plus screen before buying, and you will be just fine.

And as a "power user," you may want to look elsewhere, unless you plan on buying 2 or 3 spare batteries, but it sounds like you are comfortable charging 2 to 3 times a day any way.

32.megatron (unregistered)

Don't worry, I'm not fooling myself with the "prefer privacy" comment. The 3GS's viewing angle is more than enough for me and the people I show pictures to, so if what you say is true, then this will be more than enough of a viewing angle for me.

As far as battery life is concerned, I owned a Blackjack before the 3GS. The battery life on that phone was so bad, they provided a spare battery standard with the phone. The iPhone would last just about a day on my light to normal days, but lately AT&T's service in my building at work has gotten worse and my phone spends most of its day searching, wasting battery power, so I normally leave it plugged in at my desk now. Nevermind that I've been sitting in the same spot for the past year and a half. I would think it is my phone, but other people with AT&T have reported the same issues. While people with Sprint are getting full 4G coverage.

Sorry if all ya'll thought I was trolling, just trying to argue that I don't know anyone who looks at a phone screen and says, "It's a nice display, but I wish the viewing angles were worse." That's like saying, "Well it's a nice processor, but I wish it were slower."

I'm not convinced you thumbs-downers have actually seen the "Plus" version of the Super AMOLED displays. Not only does the "Plus" offer a better "perceived" resolution, but they have the best viewing angles of any display (see link below). I'm an iPhone 4 owner, and I can admit when other companies have better features. Seriously look at a Droid X2 vs the EVO 3D or Sensation (who all use Super LCD), the Droid X2 has considerably better viewing angles and more accurate colors.

43.megatron (unregistered)

If you have ever dealt with sensitive materials or people constantly trying to look over your shoulder when it is none of their business then you would know what I mean. There has never been a time where I thought, "If I could only see what was on my phone by looking at it from a 10 degree angle..." I know I'm not like everyone, but I don't see why someone would spend any considerable amount of time looking at their phone any other way than almost head on. Sure, maybe it's laying on the desk and it beeps and you look to see who the message is from or something like that. But I'm never going to have the need to see my phone from an extreme angle for any messureable amount of time.

You say asking for a narrow viewing angle is like getting a faster processor but asking for it to be slower. I don't agree. To me, asking for the widest viewing angle possible is like saying, "Hey world look at me! LOOK AT ME! See all my information! I don't care if you can see my credit card number or anything else, just look at me!"

I think I just realized we may be talking about 2 different things.
I am talking about accurate color reproduction and consistent brightness levels when I say "viewing angles." It sounds like you are more concerned about privacy in viewing angles. I could still read your credit card info from a screen with crappy viewing angles, I just wouldn't see it in crisp contrast, color or desired brightness. If you truly want privacy, then purchase a privacy-shade screen protector. My point of our entire argument is that a better quality display has many things: brightness, color reproduction, resolution, size, and viewing angles. No mobile display manufacturer is ever going to produce a screen and market it as "narrow viewing angles for privacy."

Agreed, but I also care about color reproduction, resolution, size, and brightness from various angles. But I still don't see the importance of wide viewing angles on a phone, at least not to the extreme, and agreed, if I want your information, I'm going to get it one way or the other. Just saying, I don't see why some reviews give cons for viewing angles if you can't see the screen clearly from less than a 15 degree angle. I want to know what people are doing looking at their phones from that angle for long periods of time.

Looks like you're registered now. :-)
It's nice to have good viewing angles when:
- Sharing screen for videos/pictures/web on the go
- Tilting screen away from direct sunlight
- Have same color/brightness/quality when in landscape (rotated)
- Don't have to have the device perfectly perpendicular to face when watching videos/pics (i.e., there are many "sweet spots", rather than just perfectly straight on)
- And gol darn it, it's just so beautiful.

I understand your concerns with privacy. I think we can be friends now. :-)

All that makes sense to me, and i can understand the "cool factor" of having a phone that can be seen clearly from any angle. Just in practical use, at least in my life, I have no need for extreme viewing angles.

I'm always up for a good debate, I never really thought you were trolling.

44.megatron (unregistered)

Btw, I have seen the Droid X2, and like I said before, I admit the contrast levels are impressive on those screens. The "Plus" made a real improvement. Also, I prefer screens I can turn the brightness down very low on and still see clearly. Right now on my desk I have twin Samsung widescreen monitors with the brightness turned down to 5 (out of 100).

69.c2g1980 (unregistered)

Please give an example of when the viewing angle would be important on a handheld mobile device. My epic has good viewing angles so I put a screen protector that blurs the viewing angles on it. Can't imagine y any1 would want to hold their phone to the side or at an angle to view it.

Purely as a precaution to those on the long, lengthy list of wanting this device I have to echo green2u's warning- most of the reviews I have read have said call quality on the handset is among the worst on any HTC device in recent memory. I only know what I have read, so just passing on. Be sure to take the EVO 3D for a good test drive and kick those call quality tires ...

17.Android Battery eater (unregistered)

People this phone is nice but trust me will be another android phone battery eater like all android phones are battery eaters. Also 3D is nice but who cares has most households dont have 3d TV much yet. So hooking up the HDMI to a NOT 3D TV will not work. FOr me I prefer a phone for personal and business use and this phone is NOT Business phone. I think of this phone a Entertainment phone is all i see in it.
I Prefer windows phone 7 which is use for personal and yes business use. Also newer phone models like Nokia will be coming out this September for new dual core windows phone 7 models with front face camera and newly updated Mango which includes 500 features will be worth waiting for to get windows phone 7. So again not excited for this phone be honest with you has it will be just another battery eater which you cant last for a day. Great about windows phone 7 battery last for 2-3 days for full use so that shows how awesome windows phone 7 built what a phone should last for full use.

No one buying this device will be expecting great battery life. If it has it, that is a bonus. So far, poor battery life is a given on new, large screen devices. Throw 3D on it, and all of a sudden extra chargers are a must. But if the phone delivers on all other specs, there will be happy owners.

dont know what they mean by normal use but i cannot get anywhere near that on my s2, but i will say that i can easily get a full days use with enough battery left over which i consider brilliant when you see what the s2 has got under the hood..think all phones should last a minimum full day without worrying about power running out. would be nice if batterys could charge from fully down to fully charge in an hour the most. that way dont think battery would be a huge issue as you would be able to charge it very quick. my galaxy s2 takes about 3-3 1/2 hours to charge from 0-100%

Whoa! 3 Hours? Is it only charging at 500mA? My iPhone 4 charges at 1A from the wall and takes 90 mins from 0% (because it is a 1420mAh battery). However, charging from a USB port is roughly twice as long (due to USB's 500mA limitation).

I think the reason they don't allow their batteries to charge any faster is due to heat. Otherwise, Lithium Polymer batteries are just fine charging in an hour (in your case at 1.65A), but would probably need open air to stay cool.

All Android Samsung phones take a long time to charge, but they do last longer than most. The Samsung Infuse can easily last me all day and night without having to charge it and that's with heavy use. But it did take a long time to fully charge. It was the same thing with the Epic and Droid Charge.

24.me (unregistered)

Learn to spell and use proper grammar. I would feel stupid taking advice from someone who can't even form clear sentences. If they don't know how to speak/type, then how would they know anything about using a phone for business purposes?

Also, this phone will work with a non-3D HDTV via HDMI, you just won't be able to play any of the 3D content. That's at least one fact you got wrong, plus poor communication skills, therefore, I do not trust anything else you say.

27.Windows Administrator (unregistered)

That's funny, because I work in a group of Windows system administrators. 2 people in my group so far have tried the new Windows phones and took them back within a few weeks to get either an android phone or an apple phone. I myself am switching from Apple to Android and will give this phone a try. Apple shot themselves in the foot by not providing the iPhone 5 on time IMO. Sure it won't kill them anything, but certainly doesn't help keep customers like me.

Take it from a Windows Administrator, Windows is not the best thing out there for technically savvy consumers.

39.Geek1 (unregistered)

I hate how in every site they always talk about how much better the Iphone is. The Iphone was cool way back, but not anymore ! The Evo was a phone that revolutionized smart phones everywhere. I'm so glad that the Evo3d is coming out because it just looks simply amazing.

All content (phone reviews, news, specs, info), design and layouts are Copyright 2001-2015 phoneArena.com. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part or in any form or medium without written permission is prohibited! Privacy . Terms of use . Cookies . Team